A strong, pointer-shaped gundog of the heavier type. Its harsh, medium-length outer coat lies flat over a dense undercoat and protects the whole body, and the face carries a beard and a forelock.14
Coloursbrown (liver)dead-leafblacksmall white markings allowed142
Personality what they are like
A composed, self-controlled dog that is neither timid nor pushy. It has plenty of drive in the field yet settles well, learns quickly and responds best to gentle, consistent handling.153
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High energy: plan on at least a half-hour to one-hour walk each day plus active play or, ideally, regular hunting, retrieving or long hikes.3
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The wiry coat sheds little and needs only occasional brushing; check and clean the ears after outdoor work and trim nails monthly.23
Home where they are happiest
Thrives with an active, outdoorsy household, ideally one that hunts or trains in field and water work.13
Company who they like around
People-oriented and happiest with one-on-one activities with its favourite humans; responds poorly to harsh corrections.3
The story where it all began
Baron von Zedlitz, writing as 'Hegewald', began the breed in 1881 by crossing Pointers with German hunting Poodles, aiming for a keen-nosed, rough-coated all-round gundog. Over roughly 30 years the programme used far more Pointers than Poodles. The breed reached North America in 1956 with Bodo Winterhelt.2
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The founding pair were said to be Tell, a Pointer owned by Kaiser Frederick III, and Molly, a German hunting poodle.2
2
Across its development the breed drew on about 11 Poodles and 80 Pointers.2
3
The FCI files it among breeds that must pass a working trial before earning championship titles.1
4
Many North American breeders deliberately keep the breed focused on field ability rather than the show ring.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'Pudelpointer' is a combination of 'Pudel' (the German word for Poodle) and 'Pointer', reflecting its origin as a cross between a Poodle and an English Pointer, first bred in Germany in 1881.6
I wake up before the sun and stretch my long legs. My human takes me to the field, where I race through the tall grass, nose to the ground. I find a scent trail and follow it for a good while, my tail wagging. We play fetch with a dummy, and I bring it back every time. After that, we walk along a forest path, and I check every bush. At home, I curl up on the rug, tired but happy. In the afternoon, I learn a new trick for a treat. I fall asleep listening to the wind outside.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 216, Group 7 Pointing Dogs, Section 1.1 Continental Pointing Dogs, with working trial; standard dated 09.11.2004.1
A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.
You need
120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)
How
Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Give to your dog as a supervised treat.
How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Pudelpointer, and at what times?
Feed your Pudelpointer at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent times each day help with digestion. Check the food label for portion guidance and ask your vet for a tailored plan.7
What should a Pudelpointer eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to your Pudelpointer’s age and activity level is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, as these can be harmful to dogs.8
How often should I bathe a Pudelpointer?
Furry Diary’s starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, while general guidance recommends at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or spends a lot of time outdoors.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Pudelpointer need brushing?
Furry Diary’s starting plan is to brush every 2 days, but the wiry coat sheds little and needs only occasional brushing. A quick weekly brush is usually enough to keep it tidy and remove loose hair.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Pudelpointer's nails, and how often?
Trim nails monthly, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.93Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Pudelpointer need?
Your Pudelpointer needs at least a half-hour to one-hour walk each day, plus active play, hunting, or long hikes. This high-energy dog thrives with daily exercise and outdoor adventures.3Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Pudelpointer's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth several times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly, especially after water work, to keep them dry and clean. Never push anything into the ear canal; just wipe the outer area.93Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Pudelpointer live?
A Pudelpointer typically lives between 10 and 16 years, with good care and regular vet check-ups.3
Is a Pudelpointer good with children and other pets?
This composed, self-controlled dog is generally good with children when raised with gentle handling. Its reaction to other pets varies; ask a breeder who knows the individual dog’s temperament.153
Can a Pudelpointer be left alone?
Pudelpointers are people-oriented and happiest with their favourite humans, so they may struggle with long periods alone. They do best in a home where someone is around most of the day.3
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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